Couples therapy

When It's the Same Fight on Repeat

For couples who feel stuck, disconnected or unsure whether to rebuild, move forward together or part ways with clarity and respect.

Book Your Private ConsultCall (615) 448-5800
Sound familiar?

If This Is You

  1. You argue about the argument.
  2. You feel more like roommates than partners.
  3. Life revolves around the kids, not each other.
  4. Trust took a hit and you want to rebuild it.
  5. One of you is less sure than the other, and that's okay.
  6. You're not ready to walk away, or sure how to keep going.

You don't have to figure this out alone.

Where to start

What You Can Work On Together

Wondering if the relationship still works

Sort through your doubts without making a decision in the heat of conflict, and see what moving forward, together or apart, would look like.

Feeling stuck in a rut

Uncover how the rut formed and what it's costing you, then rebuild the small moments that make a relationship worth showing up for.

Living like roommates

Reconnect outside of parenting and logistics, and get to know each other again without the kids as a buffer.

Rebuilding trust and communication

Slow down hard conversations, reduce cycles of conflict and learn to feel heard by each other again.

What changes

What Couples Work Toward

  • Fewer repeats of the same fight.
  • Hard conversations that end with a plan.
  • Feeling like a team again.
  • Time together that is not about logistics.
  • Trust that is rebuilt step by step.
  • A clear decision about the future, made calmly.
For the hesitant partner

If One of You Is Less Sure

It is common for one partner to be ready and the other to be skeptical. The first conversation is simply about understanding what each of you sees, with no one blamed and no decision required. Many hesitant partners relax once they see the process is fair, structured and calm.

How it starts

Your First Sessions

  1. Your 30-Minute Call

    One or both of you can join. Ask anything about how sessions work.

  2. Your First Session Together

    Each person's view of what's happening and what you both hope for.

  3. Clear Steps Between Sessions

    Many couples choose 90-minute sessions for more room to work.

Who you'll work with

John Nichols, MS, LPC/MHSP

I was raised in Franklin, trained at Lipscomb University, and work with professionals, men and couples across Middle Tennessee. More about me

License
MS, LPC/MHSP, licensed in Tennessee
Training
EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT and Existential Therapy
Couples
Gottman Seven Principles Leader, trained and certified by The Gottman Institute
Background
Helen Ross McNabb Center, Lipscomb University and Mercy Community Healthcare
Your investment

Private, Clear and Simple

$300 · 90 minutes is the most popular choice for couples. $200 · 60 minutes is also available. Private pay, so nothing goes on an insurance record. Superbills, HSA and FSA welcome. See fees and insurance.

John helped me recognize patterns in my relationships that I didn't even realize were there. He challenged me when I needed it, but always in a way that felt supportive rather than judgmental. I've learned so much about myself and how to build healthier relationships.

Client
Questions

Questions Couples Ask

What if my partner won't come?

You can start on your own. Many people begin individually, and partners often join later once they see the process is fair and calm.

Do you take sides?

No. My role is to help both of you feel heard and to make the patterns between you visible, not to pick a winner.

What approach do you use?

I draw on the research-based Gottman method. I am trained and certified by The Gottman Institute as a Seven Principles Leader.

Is a 90-minute session better for couples?

Often, yes. The extra time leaves room to slow down difficult conversations and leave with a plan. It is $300 for 90 minutes.

Do you offer intensives or workshops?

Yes. As a Seven Principles Leader, I can teach the Gottman program in workshops, intensives and private coaching. Ask about it during your consultation.

Can couples therapy help us decide whether to stay together?

Yes. Sometimes couples reconnect and strengthen the relationship. Other times therapy helps them decide about the future with more clarity and respect.

What if communication has completely broken down?

That is when many couples start. I add structure and slow things down so you can understand what is happening beneath the conflict.

Do you take insurance?

Therapy is private pay, which keeps your records private. I can provide a superbill you may submit for out-of-network reimbursement, and HSA and FSA cards are welcome.

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From the journal

Further Reading

How I can help

Not Quite You? Look Here.

Every engagement is private and tailored. In person in Brentwood or online anywhere in Tennessee.

See the areas we serve
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For Professionals

Always On, and It's Costing You

For executives, founders and physicians who have hit every mark and still feel restless. Step out of performance mode without losing your edge.

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For men

Strong, Capable, and Still Stuck

For men who carry it all and rarely say so. A direct, no-jargon space to name what feels off, and change it.

See if this fits you
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Concierge counseling

Private Care, on Your Terms

Priority scheduling, direct access between sessions, and sessions at your home or a private location. Limited availability.

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Your next step

Whenever You're Ready, We'll Start With a Conversation.

Thirty unhurried, confidential minutes with me. No pressure, and nothing to prepare.

Book a ConsultationCall (615) 448-5800